Katya Mikova – Page 21 – Automobiles Review

Peugeot RCZ R Receives Top Award Frpm FHM Magazine

The amazing RCZ R has scooped some really significant praises since its launch early in 2014. Now, Peugeot’s flagship coupe has been honored by FHM Magazine in its annual Car of the Year Awards.

Let me remind you some specifications about the car. This Peugeot arrives with a THP engine that’s is able to deliver 270 hp (199 kW) from its 1.6-litre engine at 6000rpm and has a peak torque of 330Nm at 1900rpm to 5500 rpm. The CO2 emissions are estimated at just 145g/km. In order to “tame” this significant power, the RCZ R is fitted with a Torsen®differential which delivers improved grip efficiency and dynamics.The 1.6-litre engine and the HP turn the RCZ R into the most powerful production model in Peugeot history. The vehicle can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds.

What is more, the suspension of the new Peugeot RCZ R is lowered by 10mm compared to standard models of the RCZ. Its aerodynamic downforce has been increased because of the new fixed rear boot spoiler. There are some technical upgrades developed by PEUGEOT Sport which feature a new turbocharger, larger intercooler, redesigned exhaust, modified pistons, reinforced engine block plus a new clutch and gearbox.

More about the FHM Car of the Year Awards can be read in the January issue of the magazine, which is already on sale.

Source: Peugeot

December 4, 2014

MINI ALL4 Racing to Participate in the Dakar Rally

The MINI ALL4 Racing is returning in 2015 again to defend its Dakar Rally crown! This thrilling motor race takes drivers across 9,000km of the South American continent, thus passing through Chile, Bolivia and Argentina. The people who are going to fight for MINI’s trophy are the famous Nani Roma and his experienced co-driver Michel Périn. The latter is a four-time Dakar winner himself.

In relation to the race, the legend Nani Roma commented: “The Dakar Rally is the most physically and mentally challenging rally in the world. After doing it 18 times it runs through my blood. Winning the 2014 Dakar Rally in the MINI ALL4 Racing was very special to me because it came exactly ten years after my first Dakar victory.”

The MINI ALL4 Racing is said to be ready to demonstrate what is really locked in its nature. It is super powerful, really reliable and, above all, fast! Those are qualities that will definitely help the MINI justify its title of a winner.

More about the race now. The Dakar Rally represents an absolute orienteering challenge and endurance test. People who are taking part in it, drivers and co-drivers, are not aware of the exact route until the night before when the co-driver is presented with his Roadbook. This is the key to the race which provides information about the route, dangers highlighted courses and the different terrains the car is supposed to go through.

Most importantly though, the Dakar Rally tests the unique skills of the participants, their orientation and individual character.

Source: MINI

December 4, 2014

“Ring your Setup” – Adaptive KW DDC ECU with Smartphone App for Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Series is a pure driving machine which offers pure driving pleasure. With its power output of 517 HP (380 kW), deriving from its powerful 6.2-litre-V8 engine, the car demonstrates a certain amount of sophistication, sportiness and convenience. Now with the adaptive KW DDC coilover kit and app, the experts from KW automotive set improved characteristics and virtues which result in maximized comfort and excellent experience on the road.

There are three different modes which the KW DDC ECU coilover kit offers so that the driver can alter the damping characteristics to the road conditions. The options include: “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport+” all of which are just one button away from the person who drives the vehicle. The free KW DDC App via iPhone or any other iOS or Android compatible Smartphone also allows such configuration.

Right in the heart of the development of these KW DDC ECU coilovers is situated the „Comfort“ mode and its soft dampings. Being the primary focus, it serves the purpose to provide comfort-oriented setup (which is pretty obvious by the name). Furthermore, the KW DDC control module is able to scan the vehicle data while driving the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Series and automatically adapts the damping characteristics to the driving speed. The “Sport” mode is defined by more agile and lively move. When in “Sport+”, the sporty damping characteristics double the lively sporty performance of the C 63 AMG.

In case there is a technical error, the KW DDC ECU coilovers automatically switch into a mechanical failsafe mode. In consequence, a proportional valve is adjusted instantly to a neutral middle position and the dampers continue to work in the KW basic setup.

Completely mounted KW coilover struts replace the original struts when installing the KW DDC ECU kit. The new ones come in “inox-line” stainless steel finish and allow a continuous lowering of 0 – 20mm at the front and rear axle.

Source: KW

December 3, 2014

World Debut of Ferrari FXX K

Ferrari has officially revealed the FXX K ahead of its debut in Abu Dhabi during the Finali Mondiali event. The car is formerly known as the LeFerrari XX and is based on Maranello’s first hybrid machine. The K in its moniker refers to the “KERS” kinetic energy recovery system which it adopts in order to maximize its track performance.

Now to the basics. The FXX K is equipped with the basic V12-plus-electric engine just like the road-going LaFerrari. This time around, though, it generates more power. Presicely, 101bhp more power. As a result, the car shows off with a total output of 1036bhp. Thus, there is 848bhp that derives from the 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine and 187bhp from the electric motor. Combined maximum torque is estimated at 664 lb-ft.

Even though Ferrari hasn’t announced any performance inormation for the LeFerrari, it is expected to dazzle with an amazing 0-62 mph sprint time of no more than three seconds. As it seems, it is going to be really fast. And furios. (Those just cant exist separately.)

The new Ferrari FXX K has attained a number of additional devices and features. At the front there is a 30 mm lower twin-profile spoiler, with vertical fins which tranmist air over the car’s flanks, and propels the efficiency of the aerodynamic underbody. The verticle fin-winglet arrangements on each side of the retractable rear spoiler function as guide vanes and boost the spoilers efficiency in optimized downforce mode.

According to Ferrari, this results in 50% improvement in downforce in the low drag configuration and a 30% improvement in the more aggressive downforce configuration with a final figure of 540 kg at 200 km/h.

Finally, the dynamics of the FXX K are enhanced even more by the use of Pirelli slicks complete with sensors that monitor longitudinal, lateral and radial acceleration, as well as temperature and pressure.

Source: Ferrari

December 3, 2014

New Year, New Technology Equipment for Toyota Prius+

Fresh look, top-level technological advancements, improved safety and quality is what the 2015 Toyota Prius+ is offering now. The car manufacturer, Toyota, took the wraps off the refined Prius+ at the Paris motor show and with the wraps any doubts related to the standards of the car also fell off . The restyled seven-seat hybrid depicted a new model line-up, Excel Plus, which joined the established Icon and Excel models.

All versions are equipped with LED headlamps, new LED rear light clusters and an edgier front-end treatment. The entry level Icon model receives the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with touchscreen, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio and reversing camera, as well as a tyre pressure warning system. The interior is redisigned too. There is an altered center console, dark trim finish and perfected seat fabrics. A color TFT screen has been added to the upper instrument panel too.

Moreover, the Toyota Touch 2 with Go system is available on Excel and Excel Plus models. It contributes to the technological comfort of the cars with navigation and connectivity functions, including access to live traffic information. In addition, there is also a touchscreen, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio, reversing camera, and a tyre pressure warning system. Toyota’s Pre-Crash Safety system is included too and it helps the driver avoid a collision or reduces the consequences if an impact actually occurs.

Parking becomes easier than ever thanks to the integrate Toyota Intelligent Parking Assist. It scans free parking spaces and provides automatic steering which directs the Prius+ when if finds an available parking spot.

Prius+ retains its highly efficient hybrid powertrain, which produces combined cycle performance figures of 68.9mpg and (road tax-exempt) 96g/km when fitted with 16-inch wheels and 64.2mpg and 101g/km with 17-inch wheels.

The arrival of the new 2015 Prius+ is also marked by the addition of two new metallic paint options: Sienna Bronze and Galaxy Black.

Source: Toyota

December 3, 2014

Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Enhanced by Posaidon

There are always numbers of high-speed and more-power-connoisseurs who simply never get enough from what they receive. The constant demand for more and more ushers tuning companies to push their craftsmanship and abilities to their limits and produce something that will have the ultimate WOW-factor.

Such is the situation with the current Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. Its sufficient serial output of 557 PS does not seem to be satisfying enough. For this reason, Posaidon is taking care of the performance improvements of the car, thus answering the needs of a large number of performance enthusiasts.

With the additionally generated PS in the E-class by Posaidon, the car turns into a real driving machine. Due to fine coordination of the motor electronics, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG “RS 850” demonstrates an expanded power output of 853 PS. Respectively, the torque jumps from 720 Nm to the impressive 1,300 Nm which will leave you dumbfounded. The maximum speed is 345 km/h, electronically limited. The gearbox and the rear axle are optimized as well in order to resist the increased stress. In addition to this, Posaidon professionals offer less extreme performance stages, varying from 630 to 749 PS for all model series with M157 63 AMG biturbo motors.

The performance treatment includes two upgrade turbochargers installed in connection with a changed charging air cooling, optimized suction paths of the 5.5 litres V8-biturbo drive and completely new exhaust technology which replaced the old one. The brand-new exhaust system is comprised of turbo downpipes, racing sports catalysers and flap control.

Undoubtedly, with such improvements, Posaidon definitely manages to unleash the full potential of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG “RS 850”.

Source: XMedia-Group

December 3, 2014

Vorsteiner Flow Forged V-FF 102 Wheels for Audi B8 S4

If you have a German car, some of the key characteristics which you would like to highlight on the car are: style, reliability and quality. Hence, in order to contribute to the overall appearance of the driving machine, Vorsteiner keeps coming up with original and high-class products. The tuner is known for its innovative body pieces but it also has a great variety of forged wheels that it offers. Now, the tuning company is pleased to release its latest photos of the brand-new V-FF 102 Flow Forged Wheels.

The model which is able to take advantage of the new sets is Audi S4. It is pictured in Vorsteiner’s impressive wheels in Carbon Graphite finish sized 20×9.5 in all four corners. The Concave profile of these V-FF 102’s utilizes a 255/30/20 tire for a rub-free fitment even after a moderate drop.

With the new Vorsteiner Flow Forged wheels, this Audi definitely makes a statement. It looks even more sophisticated and ready to conquer the streets.

The Vorsteiner Flow Forged series represent the entry level performance wheels which have almost all of the advantages of the company’s forged wheels at only a fraction of the cost. Compared to a conventional cast construction, the implemented Flow Forged Technology is approximately 25% lighter. Nevertheless, it is much stronger. At Vorsteiner they know how to satisfy the requirements and expectations of drivers while providing them with some of the best products in the market.

V-FF 102 Flow Forged Wheels
• Wheel Finish: Carbon Graphite
• Wheel Size: 20×9.5 Front, 20×9.5 Rear
• Tire Size: 255/30/20 Michelin Pilot Super Sports

Source: Vorsteiner

December 3, 2014

Citroën Revealed a New Concept Car Called DS 3 by Benefit

Citroën unveiled a new concept car called DS 3 by Benefit at Clothes Show Live in 2014. This is a vehicle that came to life thanks to the collaborative work by Citroen and Benefit Cosmetics. DS 3 by Benefit is a unique vehicle created to celebrate the start of the partnership between the two brands. In addition to this, Citroën is giving the chance to win the concept car at Clothes Show Live 2014.

DS 3 by Benefit is based on DSport model that is powered by a sporty THP 155 engine. It generates 115 bhp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The car is able to from 0-62 mph in 7.30 seconds, while demonstrating top speed of 133 mph.

The distinguishable design of the concept car includes Benefit’s signature pink and yellow ‘Candy Stripes’ pattern throughout. Along the sides of the vehicle, there is a graphic of the San Francisco skyline (which is the spiritual home of Benefit Cosmetics). The mild pink used on Citroen DS 3 by Benefit concept car is selected from the Benefit range of colors. The car benefits from white alloy wheels featuring the Benefit logo on the wheel rims.

Citroën is also giving away £500 worth of ASOS vouchers at this year’s Clothes Show Live. To enter, strut Citroen’s stuff for their photographer on the New C1 catwalk, then follow @CitroenUK and upload the image to Instagram using #C1tyfashion.

Clothes Show Live 2014 is taking place at the NEC in Birmingham, from 5 – 9 December.

Source: Citroën

December 2, 2014

McLaren 650S Claims Awards on Three Continents

After obtaining three prestigious titles in just one week, the McLaren 650S has achieved further global praise. This innovative car was recognized as the ‘Best Supercar’ in the Middle East Car of the Year awards, followed shortly after by winning the coveted ‘2015 China Performance Car of the Year’ title. But this is not all, my friends. This McLaren triumphed as ‘Scottish Sportscar of the Year’ too. The award was bestowed by the highly regarded Association of Scottish Motoring Writers.

Apparently, the McLaren 650S has managed to make a statement and leave a strong impression ever since it has been launched (which happened at the Geneva Motor Show in March). The remarkable results and achievements are testimony for McLaren’s workmanship, uncompromised excellence, hard work and thought put on the making of the vehicle. What is more, the 650S claimed the third successive annual title for McLaren in the Middle East region, thus following the path of the 12C and 12C Spider which had previously scooped the ‘Best Super Car’ award.

Jolyon Nash, Executive Director for Global Sales and Marketing commented: “The past week has seen the 650S claim three prestigious titles in three different continents, which is proof of the breadth of abilities this McLaren presents in all markets. The no compromise blend of high performance, refinement and driver engagement proving as important, no matter where in the world you choose to experience the 650S. That the 650S has received these commendations in such differing markets is also testament to how much and how quickly McLaren has grown as a global car company, with today a network of over 60 retailers across 30 markets. And all opened in less than three years.”

Source: McLaren

December 2, 2014

Abarth 695 Biposto is the “Smallest of the Supercars”

Today at the “Riccardo Paletti” Racetrack in Varano de’ Melegari (Parma), the new Abarth 695 biposto is being introduced to the international press and made available for test drives. The car represents a perfect combination of road-going and racing cars. In other words, the 695 biposto generates “racing” into a car that is made for daily-life use.

The vehicle weighs only 997 kg and is powered by the 1.4 T-Jet engine. The unit produces 190 HP (140 kW), which allows the biposto to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h only 5.9 seconds, while reaching a top speed of 143 mph.

Making its debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, the new Abarth 695 has gained an enormous attention from customers and it has already received a number of orders which exceed the production capacity for this year.

The brand’s modern icon is a successful production with positive repercussions in the market and at the main European automotive events like Goodwood, Festival of Speed, LeMans Classic, Lignières Historique, Salon Privée. Let’s not forget the Gumball 3000, a prestigious supercar showcase that, for the first time, adopted an official car: precisely the 695 biposto. Now the “smallest of the supercars” is ready to put its power into practice on the European roads, with the first deliveries starting at the end of the year.

Finally, this is a product that makes the ordinary seems really extraordinary. The compactness of the Abarth 695 biposto brings unquestioned convenience while its style and design demonstrate careful attention to detail, thus mixing passion, craftsmanship and ingenuity.

Source: Abarth

December 2, 2014

F82 BMW M4 Receives Akrapovic Evolution Line Exhaust System Installs

F80 BMW M4 and F82 BMW M3 ‘conquered’ the automotive and tuning world since their first appearance in the market. Now F82 BMW M4 receives Akrapovic Evolution Line Exhaust System Installs which improve the vehicle in terms of power and performance.

The arriving of the first M4 at the Mulgari’s shop to receive the premium exhaust system, turned into a memorable and quite exciting moment for this car modifier. The new titanium kit significantly changes the technical data of the F80 BMW M4. The upgraded car receives an important power and torque increase. Precisely, thanks to the Akrapovic Evolution Line system, the BMW jumps from 445 HP (327 kW) at 6250 rpm to 452 HP (333 kW) at 6600 rpm with an improved peak torque of 589 Nm (434 lb-ft.) at 3900 rpm.

What does the Akrapovic kit include though? It features a secondary cat delete, which is designed to increase the gas flow in order to distribute the increase in power and torque rates. What is more, the system also uses valve technology which enables the driver to change the tone of the exhaust as required. This of course, allows a certain customization of the vehicle’s sound.

Still, the quality of the Akrapovic is pretty obvious from the pictures. Its carbon fiber muffler tips peek out from beneath the carbon rear diffuser so they just cannot be left unnoticed. The M4 turns into a car with excellent sounding and enhanced power.

In order to make even more customers happy, the team of professionals at Mulgari is taking new pre-orders for delivery in January!

Source: Mulgari

December 2, 2014

BMW to Reveal New Generation of Plug-in Hybrid Models

The BMW i models are highly innovative, revolutionary and offer consumption and emission values of a compact car. Now, the BMW Group is preparing to add plug-in hybrid versions to its core-brand models. In relation to this, it will present a BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid prototype and a new generation of hybrid vehicle concepts incorporating technology already used in BMW i models in Miramas, France.

There is a highly efficient internal combustion engine and an electric motor powered by an externally rechargeable high-voltage battery fitted into the plug-in hybrid models. The internal combustion engine is based on the award winning (International Engine of the Year) TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine. Precisely, the electric motor and power electronics are directly based on the BMW eDrive technology already used in the BMW i3 and BMW i8 models. Short-distance urban trips can be completed on electric power only. While traveling on longer journeys, though, the vehicle will work in “combined mode”, thus operating with both systems simultaneously.

The main focus of the Efficient Dynamics strategy by BMW is directed towards the electrification of the power train. The plug-in technology aims to bring high performance vehicles well below 100 g / km CO2, while still preserving the well-known excellent driving pleasure and driving dynamics of BMW.

Finally, according to BMW, this new plug-in hybrid technology is extremely flexible and it can be integrated in a great number of vehicle concepts.

Stay tuned for more information!

Source: BMW

December 1, 2014

Author: Katya Mikova